Commemorating the Courage of the Haitian Soldiers Who Fought for American Independence in the "Siege of Savannah" and for Haiti's Independence and Renunciation of Slavery

Floor Speech

Commemorating the Courage of the Haitian Soldiers Who Fought for American Independence in the "Siege of Savannah" and for Haiti's Independence and Renunciation of Slavery

- Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of this resolution commemorating the courage of the Haitian soldiers who fought for American independence in the ``Siege of Savannah.'' This resolution also honors those soldiers who fought for Haiti's independence and the renunciation of slavery. As a cosponsor of this legislation, I would like to express my appreciation for the efforts of my good friend from Florida, Congressman KENDRICK B. MEEK, for introducing this important legislation and for the House Leadership for bringing it to the floor for a vote.

- The War for American Independence was not easily won, and it took the contributions of an untold number of American patriots. It is important that we continue to remember those heroes who gave their lives for the freedoms we can enjoy today. In 1779, American rebels fought to take back the city of Savannah from the British. This resolution commemorates a group of 500 Haitian volunteers who fought valiantly alongside the patriot forces for more than 2 weeks as the siege continued. It is important for us to take this moment to commemorate and honor the memory and sacrifice of the 300 Haitians who gave their lives during that historic battle.

- It is fitting that a monument to these brave men now stands in Savannah, Georgia, where this momentous fight took place. It is also fitting that the monument depicts a young Henri Christophe, a man who helped gain Haitian independence and end slavery in that country.

- Mr. Christophe and his compatriots fought valiantly for the causes of liberty and justice on both American and Haitian soil, proving their deep commitment to these ideals. Their desire for liberty is not yet fulfilled, so we must continue to work with the people of Haiti to realize the dreams of their founders.

- We can hardly begin to measure the ways in which the people of Haiti have shaped our country. In South Florida, residents of Haitian descent have contributed so much to the fabric of our community. Their culture, heritage, and traditions have influenced almost every single corner of our society. South Florida--so rich in diversity--would not be what it is today without the Haitian people. From the beginning of our history, the Haitian people have left their mark on America and have helped to shape our great nation. In fact, the contributions of Haitians began before our country had even won its independence, and they continue to this very day.

- Madam Speaker, I strongly urge my colleagues to support this important resolution and honor the valor and ideals of the Haitian soldiers who fought for American independence and to end the practice of slavery.

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